I tried once without one of these - lots of swearing and no positive results. Bought the tool and had them both replace in no time. The tool is priceless for removal, especially if the packing is old and super compressed.

i have never done this job but have read this tool helps remove the old packing......

https://www.zoro.com/palmetto-packi...uhjYyhMpy6SL7leWgc4xwfFGHeOChjyhoCvCEQAvD_BwE
Thanks,Cliff. I actually have one. The problem is that with my boat the V drives are essentially bolted to back of the 7.4L block and all I can see is maybe a 1/2 inch of the prop shaft. The shank with t-handle won't bend and I can't get into the stuffing box. I may have to have the boat hauled and pull the prop shafts out a ways to pull the old packing out. Thanks, again.
Bob